What do you do if you're unsure about pursuing a management role in building design during mid-career?

1 Assess your goals and values

Before you apply for a management role, you need to have a clear idea of why you want it and what it means for you. What are your professional and personal goals, and how does management align with them? What are your core values, and how does management reflect them? For example, do you enjoy leading and mentoring others, or do you prefer working independently and creatively? Do you value stability and security, or do you thrive on change and challenge? Do you seek recognition and prestige, or do you prioritize satisfaction and fulfillment? Be honest with yourself and evaluate your motives and expectations.

2 Understand the role and skills

Another important step is to understand what a management role in building design entails and what skills and competencies it requires. Management roles can vary depending on the size, type, and culture of the organization, but generally they involve overseeing projects, teams, budgets, and clients, as well as developing strategies, policies, and standards. As a manager, you need to have strong technical, interpersonal, and business skills, as well as the ability to handle multiple tasks, make decisions, solve problems, and cope with stress. You also need to be adaptable, flexible, and open to feedback and learning.

3 Seek feedback and advice

A good way to gauge your readiness and suitability for a management role is to seek feedback and advice from others who have been in your position or who know you well. You can ask your current or former managers, colleagues, mentors, or coaches for their opinions and insights on your strengths, weaknesses, areas of improvement, and potential challenges. You can also ask them for tips and resources on how to develop your management skills and knowledge. Be receptive and respectful of their feedback and advice, and use it to improve your performance and confidence.

4 Explore your options and opportunities

Once you have a clear picture of your goals, values, skills, and feedback, you can start exploring your options and opportunities for pursuing a management role in building design. You can research different organizations, sectors, and markets that interest you and that offer management positions that match your profile and aspirations. You can also network with other building designers and managers who work in those fields and learn from their experiences and perspectives. You can also look for internal or external opportunities to take on more leadership or management responsibilities, such as leading a project, mentoring a junior designer, or joining a committee.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?